© LAT Images for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd
Lewis Hamilton has often been criticized by the media and other observers for expressing environmentalist views, while still driving in Formula 1.
Some have even called Lewis a hypocrite for promoting the protection of the planet, while participating in a sport notorious for being one of the least carbon-friendly sports in the world.
In an interview with Wired Magazine Hamilton explains why he thinks he can do more good by remaining in Formula 1 and using his platform as the most successful driver in history.
“What are my options?” the seven-time champion asked.
“I could quit. The positives of that are that I won’t be driving a car around 20 different tracks, we’ll be flying less. But the fact is if I stop, the thing will keep going. They’re not going to stop for me.
Instead the Briton wants to use his influence to bring on change from the inside.
“I’m having conversations, trying to hold people in the sport more accountable. I’m constantly sending emails, I’m constantly on Zoom calls with Formula 1 and challenging them.”
The environment is not the only cause Lewis is fighting for. He is one of the main voices behind Formula 1’s campaign for racial justice and increased diversity.
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Hamilton explains how the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police officers, sparked his desire to help bring about social change.
“Watching George and what was happening with him just brought up all my emotions and the experiences that I had as a kid. I was like, ‘finally, it’s time, I can’t take it anymore.’”
And his newfound determination was on display at the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix where he wore a T-shirt with the inscription ‘Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor’. Taylor was another victim of unjust police brutality.
“Normally my focus is just on winning and perfection. But in this race, I was thinking I’ve got to win this race for Breonna.
“I’ve got to get on the podium to be able to wear this shirt. That was my drive, and that really became my drive through the whole year – encouraging people out there to use their voice to speak out.
“That became a new motivation for me – all of a sudden I had this different energy. I was racing for something and somebody else.”
And this is how he wants to be remembered, as a person who brought on positive change.
“I think I want to be one of those change-makers. A catalyst for change.
“I really hope that ten years from now I can look back and say that I maximised my time and I made the right choices and I really had a positive impact,” concluded Hamilton.
